Refractive lens exchange

How does refractive lens exchange work?

The procedure is quite straightforward. The surgeon makes a tiny incision in your eye, removes the natural lens, and replaces it with an artificial one. The whole thing usually takes about 15 minutes per eye, and it's done under local anaesthesia, so you won't feel a thing.

Your tailored lens options

Your surgeon will remove your natural lens and replace it with a clear high-quality one. We offer a range of replacement lenses to meet your lifestyle and preference.

We’ll talk you through all the options, but here’s a quick guide to our range of lenses available to private patients:

Monofocal lens

This lens has a single focus point, so your vision will be corrected for distance or near, but not both.

Extended depth of focus lens

This lens improves vision from arm’s length to distance. The need for glasses is likely to be reduced, but you may still need them for very close-up work like reading small print or sewing.

Multifocal lens

This lens provides more than one point of focus, which means clearer vision close up, at arm’s length and for distance. A multifocal lens helps to significantly reduce the need for glasses.

Toric lenses

Monofocal, extended depth of focus and multifocal lenses all come in ‘toric’ versions which help to correct blurred vision caused by an irregularly shaped eye, known as astigmatism.

£195 non-refundable initial consultation fee payable when you attend for your first appointment. If you go ahead with treatment, we’ll credit the full amount towards your final bill. The remaining balance is then due in advance of your procedure.

Your refractive lens exchange journey at Newmedica

• Referral

  Contact us to book a consultation. We’ll be in touch within 24 hours to guide you through the next steps and arrange your consultation – usually within 10 days. The consultation costs £195, non-refundable. If you go ahead with treatment, we’ll credit the full amount towards your final bill.

• Consultation

  You’ll be greeted by our patient co-ordinator, who’ll introduce you to your consultant. After eye tests and measurements, we’ll explain your lens options and help you choose a lens that best suits your needs. Surgery is then scheduled – often within a few weeks, or at a time that’s most convenient for you.

• Surgery

  Our theatre team will ensure you’re comfortable throughout. We’ll apply drops to dilate and numb your eye, before you meet your consultant to discuss any final questions. The surgery is complete in around 15 minutes. Afterward, you’ll receive eye drops and aftercare advice, then relax until you’re ready to go home.
  

• Aftercare

  We’ll call you the next day to check in. You’ll also have access to an emergency helpline for any urgent concerns. A follow-up will take place a few weeks later, either at our clinic or with your optometrist. We’ll confirm this at your consultation.